Paper Towns

 Last year, I put “The Fault in Our Stars” on my list of favorite films of 2014. And why not? The film had fantastic acting, strong direction, and solid writing behind it. Based on the book by John Green, the script was written by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber, the duo behind the scripts for “The Spectacular Now” and “(500) Days of Summer,” the latter of which is my all time favorite film. Romantic dramas seem to really be their specialty at this point, as they always have such interesting and witty stuff for their characters to say in each scene. So you can imagine that I was excited to see their newest film, based on another John Green novel, “Paper Towns.”

“Paper Towns” tells the story of Quentin Jacobson, a high schooler always fascinated by his neighbor, Margo Roth Spiegelman. After she takes him to get revenge on her friends after finding out her boyfriend cheated on her, Margo vanishes the next day, so Quentin and his friends go on a journey to find her as their last adventure before high school ends.

How is the film? Well, I think it's pretty damn good. I didn't like it as much as “The Fault in Our Stars,” but it was still something I greatly enjoyed watching. The direction by Jake Schreier is done very well, and really lets the audience be engrossed in the interactions between characters.

Speaking of which, the cast does a fantastic job in this film. Nat Wolff as Quentin does a fantastic job, also marking his second performance in a John Green adaptation after playing Isaac in “The Fault in Our Stars.” I'd dare even say that this is his best performance as an actor, and it really shows his growth as since working on “The Naked Brothers Band.” He's awkward, but soon builds his confidence and determination with finding Margo, showing a sense of growth as a character throughout the film. Austin Abrams and Justice Smith as the best friends, Ben and Radar, also give out great performances, being supportive, growing in confidence, and don't stick to being stereotypes. The chemistry between these three is probably the best part about the film, because you do buy that these guys are long-time friends, especially during the scene where they sing the “Pokemon” theme song.

Halston Sage and Jaz Sinclair as the friends' love interests, Lacey and Angela, do have some really strong scenes in the film. They have enduring moments, but at the same time have very funny moments as well. Originally in the book, Angela had a smaller part, but for the the film's sake, they wrote more stuff with her involved, which turned out pretty nicely. Cara Delevingne gives a great performance as Margo, playing a very ambitious character who essentially becomes just as mysterious as the journeys she takes part in. I think Delevingne is a great actress here, and I hope she does give out her best as the Enchantress in "Suicide Squad."

Now with all that said, what didn't I like about the film? Well, the only complaint that I do have with the film is the chemistry between Quentin and Margo. Don't get me wrong, it's not bad, far from it...it just didn't feel as strong as the friendship between Quentin, Radar, and Ben. I get that it's the intention of the story, the mystery of Margo, but I would have liked a couple more scenes between the two before the disappearance happens. After hearing that the film had to be rushed while filming in North Carolina, it definitely feels like that in some parts. If they took their time a little bit more, then it probably would have turned out a little more even. But I'm no producer, so what do I know?

Aside from that, "Paper Towns" is still a really damn good film that I highly recommend watching when you get the chance. The characters are likable, the dialogue is great, and the acting is solid. If you liked "The Fault in Our Stars,"then there's a chance you'll enjoy this one.

Rating: 9/10